You know it was a tough week in the 2013 HANA Harness Grand Circuit Handicapping Challenge when the week’s winner, Dennis O’Hara, lost only a $1.40 total for the four races (eight dashes) from Grand Circuit events this past week.

It was not for the lack of winners, but when they were hit they were not enough to overcome losing wagers. Anyone who thinks victory will be easily won in this competition are sadly mistaken; it will be a hard fought battle.

A change in the rules will be implemented starting with the Pepsi North American Cup. While the rules call for a $30 mandatory wagering total/three bet limit per stakes event, a few races have been designated as ‘bonus events.’

In bonus events, the handicapper has the option of betting up to $50/five wagers (an increase of $20 and two wagers) if they wish or they may adhere to the original limit; the choice is up to them.

As of today, the races considered bonus races are the North American Cup, Meadowlands Pace, Hambletonian, Little Brown Jug, Yonkers Trot, and Kentucky Futurity. The remaining races are being reviewed and additional races may be designated bonus events and will be named shortly.

Here are the current standings as of the end of the June 9, 2013 contest card:

Key Hits: Mark McKelvie had a $6 win ticket on Its Complicated on Friday night which paid $52.80 in the second division of the Currier and Ives. In the first division, Dennis O’Hara had the Trifecta twice (once in a four horse, then a three horse box) which grossed $59.20.

Contest Schedule This Week

Saturday, June 15: Mohawk Racetrack - $380,000 (Est.) Elegantimage, 3yoFT; $400,000 (Est.) Fan Hanover, 3yoFP; $250,000 (Est.) Goodtimes, 3yo Open Trot; $1-million North American Cup, 3yo Open Pace

Sunday, June 16: Tioga Downs - $46,000 (Div.) Jersey Cup, 3yoC&G Pace; $55,000 (Div.) Coaching Club Oaks, 3yoFT; $60,000 (Div.) Dickerson Cup; $65,000 (Div.) Ladyship, 3yoFP.

(With files from HANA)